ETC Strengthens Architectural Controls Portfolio with the Acquisition of Pharos Architectural Controls

ETC is excited to announce a decisive step toward defining the next era of architectural lighting control with the acquisition of longtime collaborator, Pharos Architectural Controls (Pharos). Pharos is a UK-based developer and manufacturer of dynamic lighting control systems used in architectural, themed entertainment, and large-scale visual installations.

This investment builds on more than two decades of partnership between ETC and Pharos whose 21-year history of innovation, reliability, and customer-first service has played a central role in the evolution of ETC’s architectural product line. 

As a valued member of ETC’s sales network, we wanted to share some more details about this acquisition with you. Please find a list of FAQs below.

Why did ETC acquire Pharos?  
ETC is acquiring Pharos as an investment for sustained, future growth in the critical architectural lighting space. The Pharos team is highly innovative and forward-thinking and has acted as the developer for ETC’s Mosaic line.

What does Pharos do?  
Aside from being the designers of Mosaic for ETC, Pharos designs the hardware and software needed to run complex lighting shows, façades, public art, theme parks, stadiums, and other high-profile environments. Pharos products are installed worldwide and known for reliability, flexibility, and 24/7 operation, making them one of the most recognized players in architectural and “architainment” lighting control worlds. The recently introduced Pharos Expert range is an easy to specify, easy to program, easy to install, and cost-effective dynamic lighting control solution for architectural lighting projects.

How will Pharos operate?
Pharos will continue to operate as a stand‑alone organization, with Simon Hicks staying on as the CEO. All existing sales and service relationships with Pharos will continue as normal and they will maintain their strong supply and licensing partnerships. Pharos will also maintain their strong licensing and supply relationships with other manufacturers in the USA.

Mosaic products will remain available to ETC channel partners.

Will ETC take on support and service for Pharos product?
ETC will continue to provide support for Mosaic Sales, while Pharos will provide support for their sales.

Will the ETC team have access to the Pharos Expert product line?
Yes, ETC will look to roll out Pharos Expert in the coming months. 

Is there training available for Pharos products?
There are online and in-person training opportunities provided by Pharos. Find more information on their website.

What is SixEye?  
As part of this purchase, ETC is also acquiring SixEye, a cloud-based remote management platform designed for systems integrators who need to monitor, configure, and control professional lighting, AV, and control system installations from anywhere in the world.